If you're in the middle of IVF and just had a Day 6 scan showing 13 growing follicles, you might feel a rising wave of panic. Especially if you had more follicles last time if you've done IVF before, or were hoping for a higher count.

But here’s the truth: Day 6 is still early.
Follicle growth unfolds in phases — and each day of stims can bring big changes.

Let’s walk through what’s actually happening inside your ovaries, day by day, and why that number isn’t the final word.

Follicle Development Happens in Stages

What you see on a scan is just a snapshot — not the whole story. Follicles grow at different speeds, and they don’t all show up clearly right away.

Some key points to remember:

• Follicles grow in waves. Some will take the lead early, others join later.

• Day 6 is mid-cycle for most people. New follicles can still be recruited.

• Ultrasounds have limitations. Tiny or overlapping follicles may not be visible yet.

• Follicle size is as important as follicle count. Only mature follicles release viable eggs.

Day-by-Day: What to Expect During IVF Stims

Growth isn’t linear. Many people report seeing dramatic changes between Day 6 and Day 9. So if your Day 6 scan feels underwhelming — give it time.

Had More Follicles Last Time? Here’s What Might Be Different

It’s tempting to compare cycles. But each IVF round is its own story.

Reasons your current follicle count may differ:

• Different medications or protocols (e.g., higher or lower FSH dose)

• Natural ovarian variation — your ovaries don’t behave identically every cycle

• Sonographer technique — different equipment, angles, or timing

• Focus on egg maturity — sometimes fewer follicles = better egg quality

You might still end up with more follicles by the time you trigger — or fewer but better-quality ones. Both are wins.

Helpful Questions to Ask Your Fertility Team

Don’t be afraid to ask for context. Try:

• Are there smaller follicles you expect to catch up in the next few days?

• Are my oestrogen levels rising appropriately with follicle growth?

• How does this compare to an average cycle at this stage?

• Do you expect changes between now and trigger day?

Your clinic sees the bigger picture — but you deserve to be in the loop.

What You Can Do Right Now

While you wait (and wait), here’s how to support your body and mind:

• Stay hydrated — it supports circulation and follicle growth

• Get gentle movement and rest — balance helps regulate stress and hormones

• Avoid obsessive googling — follicle envy is real, but unhelpful

• Be kind to yourself — IVF is not a test of endurance or worth

Follicle Growth Is a Process — Not a Performance

Your body isn’t falling short. It’s responding in real time, and it needs space to do its work.

Day 6 isn’t a final verdict — it’s a midpoint. Many follicles grow later. Some become superstars overnight. Others quietly develop in the background, only to surprise you at the last scan.

IVF is a game of inches — and patience.

You’re doing beautifully.
Trust the process. It’s still unfolding.